Mexico City Travel Guide (Central Mexico/Mexico/North America)

Introduction to Mexico City
List of Places to Visit in Mexico City
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Mexico City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Mexico City
Best Things to Do in Mexico City: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Mexico City
Food and Drink Scene of Mexico City
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Mexico City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Mexico City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Mexico City
Best Time to Visit Mexico City
Do’s and Don’ts of Mexico City
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Mexico City
- Health in Mexico City
Getting to Mexico City: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Mexico City
Where to Go Next from Mexico City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Mexico City, the vibrant capital of Mexico, is a city that has something to offer for everyone. From rich cultural attractions and natural wonders to varied food and drink scene, there are countless reasons why you should visit this cosmopolitan city. This comprehensive tour guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, including where to go, what to do, and what to eat.

Introduction to Mexico City

Located in the heart of North America, Mexico City is a bustling metropolis that’s famous for its rich cultural history, expansive green spaces, and impressive food scene. The city has a population of over 9 million, making it one of the largest and most populous cities in the world.

Mexico City is a fascinating destination for those who are interested in history and culture. Its historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, and it’s home to many landmarks, museums, and galleries.

List of Places to Visit in Mexico City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mexico City has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s home to many museums, galleries, and historic landmarks. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions:

The National Museum of Anthropology: This museum is home to the world’s largest collection of artifacts from the pre-Columbian era, and it’s a great place to learn about the ancient cultures of Mexico.
Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): This museum was the former home of the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in the life and work of this iconic artist.
Palacio de Bellas Artes: This magnificent building is home to the Opera House of Mexico City and is also a great place to see many murals painted by famous artists like Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and others.

Natural Attractions of Mexico City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Those looking for natural beauty should visit these outdoor attractions:

Bosque de Chapultepec: This expansive park offers a peaceful oasis within the city, with green areas, lakes, and museums. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Xochimilco: This is a popular destination for those looking to explore the waterways of Mexico City. You can hire a boat, and a “trajinera,” covered in colorful flowers to explore the canals and experience the floating gardens.
Teotihuacán: This archeological site, located just outside Mexico City, is home to the ancient Mesoamerican pyramids of the Sun and Moon, as well as the Temple of the Feathered Serpent. It’s an impressive site to visit and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mexico City

Mexico City has many biking and hiking routes that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the city. Some of the most popular routes include:

The Ciclovía: This is a bike lane that is closed off to vehicular traffic on Sundays, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful ride through the city.
Ajusco National Park: This park offers challenging hiking trails with scenic views of the city below. It also has a bike trail that runs through it and is a great place to experience Mexico’s natural beauty.
Mexico City’s Reforma Corridor: This is a popular biking route that runs through the heart of the city, from Chapultepec Park to the city center. It’s a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

Best Things to Do in Mexico City: Activities and Tours

There are many things to do in Mexico City, and it’s easy to find something that suits your interests. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours:

Food Tours: Mexico City’s food scene is renowned worldwide, and food tours are a great way to sample some of the city’s best dishes while learning about the culture and history behind them.
Street Art Tours: Mexico City is home to some of the best street art in the world, and tours provide an excellent way to explore this dynamic and ever-changing art scene.
Historical Tours: Mexico City is rich in history, and tours allow visitors to learn about the city’s past and explore its landmarks and historic sites.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mexico City

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Mexico City:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Visit the National Museum of Anthropology and spend the afternoon exploring Chapultepec Park
Day 2	Explore Mexico City’s historic center and visit the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Metropolitan Cathedral of Mexico City
Day 3	Take a food tour and sample some of the city’s best dishes
Day 4	Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum and Casa Luis Barragán
Day 5	Take a day trip to Teotihuacán to explore the ancient pyramids of the Sun and Moon
Day 6	Explore the street art scene in Mexico City’s trendy neighborhoods, such as Roma and Condesa
Day 7	Take a day trip to Xochimilco and explore the floating gardens while enjoying some traditional music and food

Food and Drink Scene of Mexico City

Mexico City is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, and there are countless dishes and beverages to try while visiting. Here are some must-try items:

Must-Try Dishes

Tacos: Mexico City is home to some of the best tacos in the world. You can find tacos made with a variety of meats, fish or vegetarian options.
Chilaquiles: This delicious breakfast dish is made with fried tortillas, salsa, and cheese, topped with eggs and accompanied by beans and avocados.
Tortas: A Mexican sandwich made with a soft bolillo roll and filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sauces.

Local Beverages

Pulque: An alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of the maguey cactus, a traditional Mexican drink that comes in a variety of flavors.
Mezcal: A distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant and has a smoky flavor.
Tequila: It’s undoubtedly the most popular alcoholic beverage in Mexico, made from the Blue Agave plant, and it’s a great way to celebrate your trip.

Where to Stay in Mexico City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mexico City has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best places to stay:

Hotel Downtown Mexico: This is an excellent option for those looking for a luxurious stay in the heart of Mexico City’s historic center.
Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral: It’s a budget-friendly option that offers clean, comfortable rooms in a great location.
Condesa df: This stylish hotel located in trendy Condesa neighborhood offers unique rooms with great design.

What to Buy in Mexico City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mexico City has a rich artisanal tradition, and there are several unique products you can take home as souvenirs. Some of the best items to buy include:

Traditional clothing: Mexico’s colorful artisanal textiles, including embroidered blouses and rebozos are a great souvenir.
Silver jewelry: Mexico is famous for its silver, and there are countless artisanal workshops in the city that offer unique and beautiful jewelry pieces.
Handcrafts and home décor: From colorful talavera pottery to carved wooden masks, Mexico City offers a diverse selection of artisanal products that make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Mexico City

Mexico City is a city with a rich culture and unique customs. Here are some tips to help you navigate the city like a local:

Tipping: Tipping is expected in Mexico City, and it’s customary to tip around 10% at restaurants and cafes.
Festivals and Celebrations: Mexico City is home to many festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including the Day of the Dead and Independence Day.
Siesta: The midday siesta is still a custom in Mexico City. It’s common for businesses and shops to close in the afternoon, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Best Time to Visit Mexico City

Mexico City has a mild climate year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mexico City

Do:

Learn some basic Spanish: Knowing some basic Spanish will help you communicate with locals and navigate the city with ease.
Try the street food: Mexico City’s street food is some of the best in the world, so don’t be afraid to try it.
Be adventurous: Mexico City is a city that rewards exploration, so be adventurous and try new things.

Don’t:

Drink tap water: It’s important to stick to bottled water when in Mexico City to avoid getting sick.
Take unregistered taxis: Always take registered taxis to avoid getting scammed.
Flash valuables: Keep your valuables safe and avoid flashing them around in public places.

Safety and Health

Mexico City is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, there are some safety concerns. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Mexico City

Be aware of pickpockets and keep your valuables close at all times.
Be careful at night and avoid walking alone in unlit areas.
Avoid demonstrations and protests as these can sometimes turn violent.

Health in Mexico City

It’s important to stay hydrated and avoid drinking tap water to avoid getting sick.
Altitude sickness can be a concern for some visitors, so take it easy and avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption.

Getting to Mexico City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Mexico City is easy thanks to its two airports and extensive public transportation system.

Airports Near Mexico City

Mexico City has two airports:

Mexico City International Airport (MEX): It’s the largest airport in Mexico and is located just a few miles from the city center.
Toluca International Airport (TLC): It’s located about 40 miles from Mexico City and serves mainly low-cost airlines.

Bus Stations Near Mexico City

Mexico City has several bus stations that serve different parts of the country:

Terminal Central del Norte: This is the largest bus station in Mexico City and provides service to the northern part of the country.
Terminal Sur (Taxqueña): This bus station provides service to the southern part of the country and has connections to nearby states.

Other Options

Mexico City has several other transportation options, including:

Metro: Mexico City has an extensive metro system that’s safe, fast, and affordable.
Taxis/Uber: Taxis and Uber are widely available in the city and are a convenient option for those who want to move around the city more freely.

How to Get Around in Mexico City

Mexico City has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, metro, and taxis. The metro is the fastest and most affordable way to get around the city, but buses and taxis are also convenient options.

Where to Go Next from Mexico City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mexico City is a great starting point for exploring the rest of the country, and there are many nearby destinations and excursions you can take from the city. Here are some popular choices:

Puebla: Located about 2 hours from Mexico City by car, Puebla is a city famous for its colonial architecture and delicious food.
Oaxaca: This southern region of Mexico is famous for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural traditions.
Cancun: If you’re looking for a beach getaway, Cancun is a popular choice for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife.

Conclusion

Mexico City is a vibrant and exciting destination with something to offer for everyone. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty and delicious food, it’s a destination that’s sure to leave an impression on any visitor. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Mexico City, from where to go and what to do to where to stay and what to eat. Plan your trip today and experience the best of this incredible city!